Needless to say, I've been incredibly lucky to have had the resources to indulge in this passion and watch theater on Broadway, London's West End, as well as several excellent university and independent company productions. However, barring one, all my favorites are works that are wonderful to watch whether being performed by professional actors on 42nd street, or by students at the local high school. Sometimes the latter is better, so discard the snobbery, and watch for the sake of the show.

My top favorite musicals are as follows (in no particular order)

Disney's The Lion King: Okay, for this one, I urge you all to spend big bucks because Disney's production, whether on Broadway or on the national tour, is probably the only real spectacle that you'll ever see in your life! Much has already been written about the innovative costumes and set design, so I won't bore you with more of the same, and will only say that don't be fooled into thinking that this show is for children. As adults, you'll be completely blown away.

Cabaret: : I have seen this notorious world war musical twice. One was a student production at the University of Michigan (for which I probably paid $15), and the second was the Broadway revival (which has ended) and was $55 a pop. Hands down, the university version was better in terms of both acting and choreography. Do make sure you see this musical whenever you have the chance, the memory will stay with you forever. Warning: you will hum "Willkomen, Bienvenue, Welcome" for the next two weeks. Currently playing in London.

Cats: Saw this in London, folks! Yes, lucky me. It was almost 15 years ago, but I remember it like it was yesterday. The cats jumping around in the audience, Macavity's sexy dance, and the spine-chilling rendition of "Memory." Oh man, what a show. Guess what, the show is currently touring across the world.

The Mousetrap: by Agatha Christie: Her most famous play is certainly worthy of its status. We watched this play in a local community theater house in Toronto, and it was lovely. The intimate space really added to the mystery and looming dread of what was going to happen next. It's currently playing on the West End in London.

The Wind in the Willows: by Kenneth Grahame: This heartwarming tale about a mole, rat, toad and badger is certainly a family/holiday classic, and for me, a lifetime-must-see. The production I watched years ago, had a magnificent set, the image of which as stayed with me since, along with that of a whole underground community of animals scurrying around going about everyday life. The play is such a gem that it is constantly performed at various locations around the world.

Other shows I haven't seen but plan to and highly recommend:

Les Miserables: (evergreen classic)

Wicked: (you should know the story of "The Wizard of Oz" to enjoy this one)

Mamma Mia! : (especially if you love ABBA songs)

Chicago: (lots of jazz, dancing and delicious crimes)

Spamalot : (if you enjoy the Monty Python series)